Why has the Chemical Industries Association welcomed Andy Burnham’s appointment as UK prime minister?

The Chemical Industries Association (CIA) welcomed Andy Burnham’s appointment because it supports his call for reindustrialization and radical economic action to reverse the long-term decline of UK manufacturing, particularly in regions historically dependent on heavy industry. The CIA stated that the chemical sector—critical to national infrastructure and the UK’s energy transition—stands ready to support Burnham’s vision for industrial renewal, citing urgent needs in key chemical hubs like Runcorn, the Humber, Teesside, Grangemouth, South Wales, and the Solent.

What does the news say about the current state of the UK chemicals sector?

According to the news, the UK chemicals sector is in severe decline: since 2022, eight chemical plants have shut down, leaving the country with only one operational cracker. This is part of a broader European trend, with 24 million tonnes/year of chemical capacity scheduled for closure or sale—equating to 9% of Europe’s total chemical capacity in 2021.

UK Chemicals Sector Welcomes New Prime Minister and Call for Reindustrialization

Jul 20, 2026

The UK Chemical Industries Association welcomed Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s pledge to reindustrialize Britain through state intervention. The sector supports the initiative following significant capacity losses, with eight UK chemical plants closing since 2022 amid a wider European downturn.

icis

2026-07-20

UK Chemicals Sector Welcomes New Prime Minister and Call for Reindustrialization

UK Chemicals Sector Welcomes New Prime Minister and Call for Reindustrialization

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